Connaughton to be transportation secretary

Sean Connaughton has been named to help solve one of Virginia’s toughest problems.

Gov.-elect Bob McDonnell announced that Connaughton will become his secretary of transportation. Connaughton is the former chairman of the Prince William County Board of Supervisors and was administrator of the U.S. Maritime Administration under former President George W. Bush.

“Sean shares my commitment to solving our transportation challenges, and his background has prepared him very well for this position,” McDonnell said in a statement.

McDonnell also pointed to Connaughton’s experience in shipping, including his current role as vice president of the American Bureau of Shipping, to “ensure that we fully maximize the potential of this great asset.” Three companies have submitted offers to purchase the operating rights of the Port of Virginia.

McDonnell also announced Wednesday that Todd Haymore, the current commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, would become the secretary of agriculture and consumer services.

Lisa Hicks-Thomas, the current deputy attorney general for the technology, real estate, environment and transportation division in the Virginia Office of the Attorney General, will become the secretary of the administration.